Back in the summer there was a lot of pointless speculation linking Ben Foster with Queens Park Rangers.

Pointless because there was absolutely no chance of the West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper moving to any other club when it became clear Birmingham City would be cashing in.

Foster is a rare breed of a man. He is motivated by family and peace of mind.

Money, while no doubt providing him with a comfortable way of life, is not about to change his ways.

As it happens, the speculation regarding QPR was more than that – there was a genuine offer made.

There was no chance of that deal ever materialising due to Foster’s determination to stay close to his home.

The 29-year-old only ever had one destination in mind.

“This will hopefully be my last move,” said Foster.

“I have no interest in moving south or up north.

“I’m from this area, the kids are going to be settling into their schools soon so we need to get them registered.

“My wife loves the area too, which is obviously vital.

“I knew I wanted to be a West Brom player and I knew that Birmingham were in a position where they had to sell me.

“And I didn’t really want to move anywhere else.

“All of those things are important to me more than anything else.”

Although Foster was always planning to move across the West Midlands, he claims that goalkeeping coach Dean Kiely’s continued presence at the club was key to the final decision over his move.

Kiely is a key member of Albion’s coaching staff, with Foster citing the ex-Republic of Ireland man as a crucial factor in his performances of last season.

The dynamic between coach and the three goalkeepers – including Boaz Myhill and Luke Daniels – has been clear to see during Albion’s stay in Scandinavia.

Foster feels he might have been less inclined to move had Steve Clarke, or indeed any other boss, restructured his staff and brought in a different coach.

“That was massive for me,” he continued.

“It was something that I wanted to get clarified before I signed, to know that Deano would be staying around, because he’s the person I am working with day in, day out.

“That’s my point of communication with the club. I don’t really go talking to the gaffer or assistant a lot, it’s always with Deano.

“It’s great news that he was always going to be kept on and I look forward to working with him for as long as I’m here because he’s very similar to me, he’s laid-back and he is good fun as well so we’ve got a very good working relationship.”